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Nike Heads to Hawkins for Debut Stranger Things Collection

Set in the summer of 1985, this season of "Stranger Things" finds small-town Hawkins, Indiana, in the midst of change (no surprise). The show's core protagonist group is on the cusp of high school, grappling with themes of love and friendship, and tackling a looming danger.

As in the prior two seasons, 1980s nostalgia informs the Hawkins scene. This extends to the costuming, where classic Nike footwear and brand marks are common. Off-screen, this nostalgia is the impetus for the Nike Stranger Things collection, highlighting the Cortez, Blazer and Tailwind.

The sporting world in 1985 was also undergoing a radical change — energy was reverberating from the summer games in Los Angeles and pro basketball was swinging firmly into its showtime era. At Nike, 1985 was the year visible Air began to take shape (realized two years later in the Air Max I) and when the iconic Dunk emerged on collegiate basketball courts. Meanwhile, the Cortez, Blazer and Tailwind remained sport and style staples, granting a timely authenticity to the Stranger Things collection.

Notable Nike Designs from the '80s

The first drop of the collaborative capsule incorporates Hawkins High's green and orange color scheme and Tiger mascot into a spirited mix of apparel and footwear. Sweat suits and complementary T-shirts channel 1980s phys-ed class style, and three sneakers match accordingly. The pieces launch June 27.

Hawkins High apparel

Hawkins High apparel

A second drop of shoes arrive July 1. Dubbed the "OG Pack," each shoe carries a red, white and blue color scheme and celebrates 1985 Independence Day with a year marker on the heel and special firework display sock liner.